Batang Transformers

day youth leadership program conceptualized and initiated by former Senator and distinguished Professor at the Pimentel Center for Local Governance at the University of Makati, Aquilino “Nene” Pimentel Jr. as part of his continuing advocacy for peace through transformational leadership in our country. Professor Nene Pimentel has always believed that the youth should assume and play a leading – and activist - role in the development of our country.

2. Considering the continuing conflict in the southern part of the Philippines, and considering the continuing lack of understanding and misperceptions and prejudices against the minorities and other sectors in the country, and considering further the potential and powerful role that the youth can - and must play - in breaking down these prejudices and misconceptions, this unique and innovative initiative will bring youth leaders from the minorities to this four day training workshop dubbed as “batang transformers.”

3. The unique feature of the four day program is in the composition of invited participant youth leaders. The participants will be drawn mostly from the minorities (including Muslim, lumad, dumagat, cordilleran, igorot, itawes, etc.

4. Contribute to the process of character building though transformational and servant leadership, solidarity and service to the community. Inspire, mobilize and contribute to the youth leaders’ becoming change makers in the community
c. Contribute to breaking down the psychological divide between and among the ethnically divided members of the youth sector.

5. The following will be emphasized during the four day program:

a. Transformational / servant leadership
b. Values and ethics
c. Patriotism and love of country
d. Indigenous approaches to good governance and peace building
e. Good and Smart practices at the local level (Mindanao and Cordilleras)

6. Before returning home, the youth leaders will be asked to prepare re-entry / action plans focussing on the theme “My role as a servant leader for peace and nation building: What I can do as a young leader in my barangay”

7. The following is an indicative schedule of the four day workshop: